Are light filled spaces the clue to a happier workplace?

Are light filled spaces the clue to a happier workplace?

Architects and designers are increasingly looking at how to codify wellbeing into building design. In doing this levels of both physical and psychological comfort can be addressed and an understanding of the role that light plays in this has become critical.

Lux levels measure the amount of light illuminating a space, and designers will use this metric to help create a well-lit, comfortable environment. Lux levels have become important for office managers and building owners for the simple fact that light quality in a space can have a tremendous impact on occupant wellbeing and productivity.

Exposure to approximately 100 lux of light, for example, has a measurable effect on human alertness as it acts as a “low-level” activator of the brain’s alertness systems, making it a critical, functional threshold for lighting design in offices and other workspaces.

Recommended lux levels in the USA vary by task and location, with general office areas needing around 300-500 lux, detailed work like technical drawing requiring 750 lux, and residential reading zones needing 500-1000 lux, while hallways and circulation areas need less (100-200 lux), always considering activity-specific needs for comfort and safety as per Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) guidelines.

Meanwhile building certification systems such as the USA-originated WELL Building Standard (WELL) and Fitwel have highlighted the importance of light in their guidelines, as unlike more traditional environmental building standards such as LEED and BREEAM, the primary focus of WELL and Fitwell is human health, wellness, and occupant comfort.

Lighting design and strategic responses

Light can affect all aspects of our wellbeing when we occupy a building. Human centric lighting helps colleges and universities keep students and teachers happy and supports learning. From the perspective of access to light in an office space there are also circulation spaces, presentation areas, cafe/refreshment points, as well as desk and task areas to consider.

Understanding what people are going to be doing in a particular space at a particular time is a first step and design strategies and interventions can respond in specific ways to:

• optimise comfort, for example control of lightness and brightness;
• facilitate tasks, for example ease of reading;
• provide a safe and inclusive environment; and will
• consider what is appropriate and required lighting levels at different times of day.

Enhanced daylight access, the balance of ambient and task lighting, and activity-based lighting are part of an overall design response, and important in all buildings especially those with deep floorplates.

As well as the performance however, a consideration of the aesthetics of these surroundings is an integral part of the design process we have found in order to achieve light, comfortable and inspiring spaces in which to work and learn.

Solutions to maximise natural light

By integrating glass partitions throughout the design PepsiCo maximised the amount of natural light flowing through the fit-out of its Dublin (Ireland) Headquarters. Our Revolution 54 Shoreditch Edition double glazed partitions were specified for this project.

This adaptable and attractive system brings a spacious and airy feel to the office. Located in the heart of the city, the minimalist, New York loft-style design helps create the atmosphere of the PepsiCo’s New York office.

The integration of our Shoreditch Edition glass partitioning system enhanced the industrial style of this multinational FMCG companies’ new office. The striking slimline aluminium framework which bonds to the glass offers a dramatic design feature. Therefore, it retains structural stability and acoustic performance whilst giving the appearance of cutting through the glass.

Maintaining a sense of privacy within this open workspace was also key for PepsiCo.  Subcontractors Walls to workstations installed a reeded manifestation along the middle section of partitions. As a result, this allows light to still flow freely throughout the office whilst offering an enhanced level of visual privacy for their employees.

Strong design embraces light and aesthetics

At the University of Arts London, in the city’s redeveloped King’s Cross district, global architects Perkins + Will’s design for the Granary Building forges old and new in an environment that promotes learning and creativity.

Glass is a particularly dominant feature throughout the Granary Building, which was partly restored and has a unique aesthetic. At its centre is an “internal street”, covered by a glass roof that maximises natural light travelling through the design.

Working with the main contractor, Overbury, we installed a number of our glass partitions and doors to enhance the aesthetic and atmospheric qualities of the building. Furthermore, the installation of glass partitions created a collection of large, open plan breakout spaces and smaller private rooms.

A dynamic environment has been created which allows for study, collaboration and easy flow through these light enhanced spaces.

As a leading supplier of glass wall systems and doors, PurOptima, through its dedicated network of U.S. project delivery partners, is on hand to work with architects and designers to help realise your vision for a project. Contact us to find out more.